Food Not Bombs

Written by Jenni McEwen

What could be better than free food, right? How about free food that sends a message as well? That's the goal of Binghamton Food Not Bombs, to provide people with a wholesome vegetarian meal free of charge, while working to end hunger and to "stop the globalization of the economy, restrictions to the movements of people, (and to) end exploitation and the destruction of the earth."

Food Not Bombs is a worldwide organization that began in 1980 in Cambridge, MA by anti-nuclear activists and is currently active in the Americas, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, Australia, and not to mention right here in our city of Binghamton. It is all volunteer and is dedicated to non-violent social change, they share food with the hungry and also protest war and poverty. They are out to make a difference one meal at a time.

Food Not Bombs chapters nationwide have been there for people through rough times and were even the first to provide hot meals to the rescue workers who responded to the September 11th World Trade Center attacks. Despite all the wonderful things they have and are trying to accomplish many groups are facing adversity and have been arrested while trying to help their fellow man. As their website states, "food is a right, not a privilege", and well, it's really hard to argue with that.

Binghamton's chapter was started a little over a year ago and is currently serving food at 1pm every Sunday at Columbus Park on Carroll Street . Food will be served indoors during the Winter months (it was held at the Beacon on Court St. last year, not sure about this year, but we will keep you updated when we find out more information). All meals are either grown or donated by local businesses including grocery stores and CHOW and as previously stated, are vegetarian in nature.

The groups have no set leaders and are always open to all input and participation and try to involve everyone in their decision making process. There are a number of ways to help our local chapter. Whether you'd like to donate food, or simply volunteer your time on distribution days, etc., they will be glad to have your support.

Also, Binghamton Food Not Bombs will be having their semi-annual benefit show on Saturday September 26th at 7pm in the basement of 4 Edwards St. in Binghamton. $3 cover. Come out and support a great cause!!

If you would like to learn more, or to find out how you can help their efforts, email binghamtonfoodnotbombs@gmail.com.